Serologic
examination is used initially to indicate
the presence of the infection by
detecting Toxoplasma-specific
antibodies.
Serum, plasma, cerebrospinal
fluid (CSF), and eye fluid specimens may
all be tested for antibodies. If
determination of immune status is the
reason for testing, a single specimen is
satisfactory.
If determining the time of
infection is important, two specimens
drawn at least 3 weeks apart may or may
not be useful.
In most cases, detection of a
rising IgG or IgM titer is not possible
because the titers have already reached a
plateau by the time the initial sample is
drawn.
The above algorithm may
be used to determine the appropriate
sequence of serological testing."
